Once upon a time Rue Chateauredon was known as Rue des Brebis the Street of Sheep. Can you imagine bleating sheep wandering this very street? This charming street in Marseille’s Noailles district has a rich history. Its current name Rue Chateauredon dates back to March 8 1865. It honors the Rabier de Chateauredon family. This powerful Provençal family owned a seigneury a feudal estate in Digne. Their ancestral home was called Castel Redon.
For a long time Rue Chateauredon was a muddy impassable alley. Locals complained about its condition. Finally in 1756 the street was improved and widened. Five years later it was extended to the city’s ramparts. After the ramparts were demolished the street reached Cours Lieutaud. A portion of the upper street was lost however.
Today Rue Chateauredon is a pedestrian paradise. It’s known as La Belle Verte the Beautiful Green street. Hundreds of plants line both sides. The street’s transformation began in 2014. It was partially pedestrianised and the street surface leveled. Parking is now impossible. This change encouraged the planting of the beautiful greenery.
Artists have contributed to the transformation too. Works of art adorn the walls. The entrance to the Daki Ling auction house is particularly striking. It’s beautifully framed in a new setting. The street’s evolution is truly remarkable.
However the story is not entirely perfect. Some buildings on Rue Chateauredon have been hit by building collapses. This occurred in 2018 and 2020 following the devastating collapses on Rue d’Aubagne. These events highlight the fragility of older buildings. They also emphasize the need for careful maintenance and preventative measures.
Despite these challenges Rue Chateauredon thrives. It serves as a vibrant example of urban renewal. The street beautifully combines history with modern improvements. It’s a testament to community initiative and the enduring power of nature. It’s a must-see for any visitor to Marseille.